The Uzi is a selective-fire, open-bolt, submachinegun manufactured by IMI of Israel. It is large, extremely heavy, and notoriously inaccurate on full auto -- however, it is also extremely reliable, easy to strip down, and has a slow cyclic rate (approx 650 rpm), making it ideal for the non-combatants to whom it is currently issued (clerks, school teachers, rabbis, private citizens of Israel). It is considered obsolete for military or law enforcement purposes. Many journalists and gangstas confuse the Uzi with inferior weapons, such as the TEC-9 or MAC-10 pistol -- which typically are not even fully automatic. Nearly all Uzis are 9mm parabellum, but conversion kits are available for other calibers as well.

Public Enemy had a rap song back in the 80s titled, "My Uzi weighs a ton" -- fully loaded, an Uzi weights about 15 pounds.

Developed by 26 year old lieutenant Uziel Gal(d. 2002 aged 78) of the IDF. Went into production 1955. 9mm Sub Machine Gun accurate to 150 metres.
Mass produced under licend by FN of Belgium. Currently in use, Netherlands, Germany, U.S, Ireland.
Particularly popular with Special forces and HRT's.

Mini uzi variant developed 1980.
Micro uzi
Uzi machine pistol

Contrary to popular belief, it is unlikely that so called "Gangstas" would typically posses such a weapon.
Owing to its cost (in excess of $6000)
Weapons commonly mislabelled as "uzis" include
Scorpion vz 61 machine pistol

Ingram Mac 10 and 11
(effective range 25 metres. Could explain why "ganstas" can't hit fuckall. That plus their lack of firearms training and the inability to straighten their arms)

The Uzi, not withstanding the infamous Mp5 and its variants is one of the most popular SMGs in use today.